Simone Biles reveals why she started therapy before the 2024 Paris Olympics as Mykayla Skinner feud simmers: 'I think of it as a strength'

Simone Biles revealed she's feeling 'a lot more free' after incorporating therapy into her routine. 

The athlete, who is now the most decorated American gymnast in Olympic history, sat down with Today host Hoda Kotb on Wednesday's episode of her Making Space podcast. 

'I've always tried to stay authentic to myself, so I feel like the new me, I'm a little bit older, more mature, so just being unapologetically me,' Biles said of her current mentality.

'I feel a lot more free, especially going to therapy and doing those sessions so that physically and mentally I feel better, and I know that's an important part of my routine. So just staying on top of that, it lightens the load a lot,' she went on. 

The TV personality recalled Biles' highly-publicized struggles with the 'twisties' in 2021 during the Tokyo Olympics, as the eight-time gold medalist credited 'therapy' for her growth.

Simone Biles is feeling 'a lot more free' after incorporating therapy into her routine

'I think we used to think of therapy as a weakness, and now I think of it as a strength,' she said

'I think, before, I was pushing down my trauma, and now I've learned to speak on it and kind of release that. So that's really helped me, and that's why I'm doing what I'm doing today,' Biles said.

'I think we used to think of therapy as a weakness, and now I think of it as a strength. And if there's somebody that can help me deal with what I'm going through, then that's what I need to do. And now it's a daily part of my routine.' 

She reflected on earning another gold medal in the women's team final earlier this week, telling reporters she started the day with a morning therapy session. 

'That was super exciting. I told [my therapist] I was feeling calm and ready and that's kind of exactly what happened,' she said. 

'After I finished vault, I was relieved. I was like, "Phew," because [there were] no flashbacks or anything.'

Biles referenced MyKayla Skinner's controversial take after their Olympic triumph

Biles hit out at Skinner after the ex-gymnast recently questioned Team USA's 'work ethic'

It comes amid Biles' ongoing feud with her ex-teammate, MyKayla Skinner.

The 27-year-old shared a photo of herself, Jordan Chiles, Hezly Rivera, Jade Carey and Lee holding a USA flag aloft with the caption, 'lack of talent, lazy, olympic champions.'

It was a reference to Skinner, who recently sparked controversy by questioning the current American squad's 'work ethic' and dedication to their craft. 

And after her dig on Instagram this week, Chiles revealed that Biles has now been blocked by Skinner on Instagram.